Hike El Cajon Mountain

This challenging trek is a great way to get in shape for that spring or summer trip to the Sierras. You may have heard others tell you how tough the hike is and they're not kidding. You'll be gaining 4100 feet over the 12 miles to the peak and back. If you have the time and the energy, you should keep heading past the peak to check out the cliff overlooks. This small detour will only add 2 miles to your total hike and is well worth it.

There is easy parking at the parking lot for the trail, but it doesn't open until 7am. If you're looking to get an early start on this long hike, you can park on the road next to the lot. Once you've got your gear and your boots on, head down Shenma Road, past Blue Sky Ranch, and hit the trail. If you were worried about bathrooms, rest easy. There's a bathroom at the start of the trail.

Once you're moving, you'll notice that the trail is well marked with mileage markers and elevation. You can use these to keep track of your progress and make sure you're back at the car on time. The hike to the peak isn't entirely uphill; you'll be climbing and descending hills as you head toward the peak. When you pass the rusted jeep, you can breath a sigh of relief knowing that you're close to the peak. Just past the jeep, the trail will split. If you head to the Left, you'll be on track to El Cajon Mountain. If you choose to go right, you'll have a little shorter hike to El Captian Mountain. At the summit, break out your water bottle and snacks and enjoy views of the El Cajon Reservoir. After you summit El Cajon, head back the way you came. When you reach the fork, you have the option to head to the cliff overlook if you've got the energy.

Once you've made it back to the parking lot, head to Eastbound Bar & Grill for a cold one.

Photos: Jerry Kurjian